Stevenson, who lost a tough-fought championship battle to B.J. Penn earlier this month, will be the guest of honor tonight at the TAO Nightclub, which is located within the Venetian on the Las Vegas strip. TAO is one of Stevenson’s biggest supporters and wanted to honor “The Ultimate Fighter 2″ winner for his valiant (and bloody) effort at UFC 80.

The fan-friendly event is open to the public, and Stevenson will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take photos. The party starts at 10 p.m. PT (local time).

Then, on Saturday, Mir’s official after-party will take place at Rum Jungle, which is located within the Mandalay Bay — the same venue that hosts UFC 81.

Many fighters and industry insiders are expected to be in attendance at the after-party, which is sponsored by MMA Warehouse and Warrior Wear International.

Mir, the UFC’s former heavyweight champion, battles NCAA Division I national wrestling champion and former WWE performer Brock Lesnar in Saturday’s co-main event. Mir, who owns a 10-3 career record (including an 8-3 mark in the UFC), has been tapped the underdog by oddsmakers.

Additionally, in a surprising move, the UFC has decided that Mir will enter the cage first — before Lesnar. “Challengers” usually enter the cage first, but despite just one professional fight, Lesnar gets the honor of coming out second.

For the latest news about UFC 81, check out the UFC Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com.

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